Green (Chelonia mydas)
Stranding Location: Kiawah Island, SC
Arrival Date: 8/29/23
Age: Juvenile
Sex: Unknown
Weight: 3.77 kg (8.31 lbs)
Case History
Waterloo was reported to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) by a beachgoer who found the turtle stranded on the beach above the high tide line. SCDNR dispatched the Kiawah Turtle Team to retrieve the juvenile green turtle for transport to the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Care Center™ for examination and treatment.
Treatment
Waterloo arrived fairly active and in decent body condition. Radiographs revealed lung symmetry and normal GI tract function. Upon physical examination, it looked like Waterloo might have recently been involved in a predator encounter, such as a shark. S/he had small, superficial rake marks on the left mid-side of the carapace (top shell) and a few rake marks and abrasions on the plastron (belly shell). The patient was given fluids, vitamins and antibiotics and was cleared to be tested in a full tank of water. Once placed in the tank, Waterloo took to the water easily and exhibited a calm demeanor, smooth breaths and was able to rest on the bottom. Within 15 minutes of being in the new tank, s/he started defecating sea grass and was clearly settling in.
Updates
The next day, Waterloo was active and bright. Staff offered a couple pieces of fish to test this patient’s appetite and s/he ate them immediately. So far, things are looking good for this young turtle.
September 15, 2023: Waterloo has been eating quickly and consistently and defecating lots of seagrass! In the wild, green sea turtles naturally eat seagrass and algae. As juveniles, they will eat a combination of seagrass and protein. Once they become fully grown adults, they will fully switch to consuming vegetation only. It’s great to see that Waterloo was eating the veggies early on, and s/he seems to appreciate our substitution of romaine lettuce and zucchini.